Equine Cruelty Investigations
By Pat Raia • Oct 01, 2012
Veterinarians and animal welfare organizations help law officers investigate equine cruelty cases and teach them how to recognize signs of neglect.
In May 2012 an informant contacted the Miller County, Ark., Sheriff's Department to report suspected equine cruelty. During a subsequent investigation sheriff's deputies discovered the skeletal remains of a horse. Apparently the animal had died after being tied to a tree and deprived of food or water for weeks. Following a full investigation authorities charged the horse's owner with one count of felony animal cruelty and placed his remaining horse with a relative under monitored care. Miller County Sheriff's Dept. Chief Deputy Duke Schofield says the incident is just one of many equine-related cruelty cases his department investigates routinely.
"People are very aware of animal welfare issues, and you'd be surprised how many horse-related calls we get every month," he says. "We follow up on them all."
Although the specific language of equine-related animal cruelty statutes varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, the word "neglect" generally refers to specific circumstances ranging from withholding food and water deliberately to failing to provide reasonable shelter and necessary veterinary, farrier, and other basic care. According to statutes in some locales, such neglect can also constitute animal cruelty. Physically injuring or killing a horse by beating, shooting, etc., is also considered cruelty under most animal welfare laws.
Local police or, as in Miller County, county sheriff's department personnel carry out animal cruelty investigations. In some jurisdictions law enforcement agencies form contracts with humane organizations, such as reputable horse rescues or other animal welfare organizations, to assist with equine cruelty investigations. Schofield says officials investigate these cases in much the same way that authorities probe other criminal activity. That means investigators visit locations where the alleged cruelty or neglect has taken place, observe the animal and his environment, interview the animal's owner, and interview witnesses separately, including (if possible) the informant who originally brought the suspected incident to light. If circumstances fall under provisions contained in local laws, law enforcement authorities can--with sufficient evidence--arrest and charge the allegedly errant owner with animal cruelty. Under
appropriate circumstances law enforcement personnel can also assume custody of the animals and remove them from the owner's property and care. The case then moves on to local or county prosecutors for trial. If convicted, the animal's owner faces penalties dictated by the jurisdiction's specific animal cruelty laws.
However they play out, animal cruelty cases can be time-consuming and expensive to investigate and prosecute. And because horses' lives and humans' livelihoods both hang in the balance, animal welfare advocates and law enforcement officials alike say it's crucial that cruelty case investigators are well-prepared to do their jobs.
Understanding the Basics
In 2007 equine investigations instructor Essie Rogers helped develop an equine cruelty investigations training course for Kentucky law enforcement personnel. The course covers animal cruelty investigation fundamentals, including how to interview owners, witnesses, and informants. Also, officers learn basic horse handing and responsible horse keeping methods. Equine-specific components of the course are critical because some law enforcement officers might be completely unfamiliar with horses and their care. Such is the case in some jurisdictions, Rogers says, and "you can't investigate a horse cruelty case if you're terrified of horses."
Along with direction on safe horse handling techniques, including how to read equine body language, the course Rogers helped develop includes material on equine nutritional needs and appropriate feeding. Officers also learn to assess equine body condition using the Henneke body condition scale. Don Henneke, PhD, developed the scale in 1979 solely to determine the amount of fat present on a horse's body. Scale values range from 1 to 9; horses with a score of 1 are deemed emaciated, and those with a score of 9 are considered extremely fat. Using the scale accurately requires examining the horse manually for fatty tissue present at specific locations on the animal's body. It also requires experience.
Gathering Evidence
Equine cruelty investigators have long used the Henneke scale while gathering evidence needed to seize horses legally from their allegedly neglectful owners. But the scoring system is just one tool investigators use to make a case, says Morgan Silver, a veteran equine cruelty case investigator and executive director of the Horse Protection Association of Florida. Notes Silver, humane officers work alongside veterinarians who examine animals for physical signs of emaciation or cruelty.
"This requires looking at a big picture--not only the horse's surroundings but also a good physical exam," says Marilyn ¬Maler, DVM, of Sun Spirit Farm and Veterinary Services, in Alachua, Fla., who assists Silver with cruelty cases. "This includes looking at the teeth, listening to the heart and lungs, and using bloodwork and fecal exams to rule out any other medical reason the horse would be thin."
Reporting Suspected Cruelty
Frequently, tips from observers are the first way law enforcement agencies and animal welfare organizations become aware of suspected equine cruelty or neglect. Therefore, animal welfare authorities encourage anyone who suspects or observes animal cruelty or neglect to contact them immediately. Use these tips to obtain and share information safely and effectively about suspected animal cruelty or neglect with local animal welfare authorities:
Don't trespass Some equine cruelty investigations are initiated after a passer-by reports viewing possibly neglected animals from a pubic roadside. Other times someone observes and reports an animal's condition personally after being invited onto the owner's property. Both situations allow observers to notify authorities of suspected cruelty or neglect situations without violating owners' property rights or putting themselves in danger.
Miller County, Ark., Sheriff's Dept. Chief Deputy Duke Schofield cautions against entering onto any property without the owner's invitation.
"We never want people to do that; it's just too dangerous," he says. "Unless we have a warrant, even we have to knock on the door and ask permission to investigate the property."
Contact local law enforcement Jurisdiction over animal cruelty cases varies from location to location. Contact local law enforcement authorities to determine which department investigates suspected animal cruelty cases. When in doubt, phone local police or the local county sheriff's department. Then be ready to provide specific information about the animals' location and suspected condition.
In most cases this information can be shared anonymously; however, having tipsters' names and contact information might be helpful to law enforcement personnel if they decide to move forward with a formal investigation.
Share documentation discreetly Photographs of allegedly maltreated animals can facilitate law enforcement investigations into cruelty cases, but only if those photographs are obtained lawfully, such as when animals are in plain view from a roadside or other public venue. Equine investigations instructor Essie Rogers advises against sharing those photographs with anyone other than law enforcement personnel. "It's probably not a good idea to send the pictures to the local television station or newspaper because the publicity might jeopardize investigators' case," she says.
Be patient In most cases law enforcement authorities respond quickly to reports of suspected animal cruelty or neglect. However, these cases take time to investigate and prosecute.
"Cruelty cases can be time-consuming because we want to make a good case," Schofield says. "We want to do what's right for the animals."
She cites cases, for instance, in which horses are provided plenty of food, but because of health conditions preventing their bodies from digesting and absorbing that food optimally, they look very thin.
"Almost the biggest predictor (of true neglect) is to look around at the other horses," she says. "If you have 10 thin horses on a property, fences falling down, and green water, there's probably not a medical reason (for the horses body condition)."
Bloodwork can also indicate whether a horse is at such a severe stage of starvation that his body has started using its own muscle--including cardiac, liver, and kidney--to sustain itself.
Authorities also record allegedly maltreated animals' condition with video or in still photographs they include in the evidence record. Investigators examine and record other evidence, including the presence or absence of food and water and shelter for the animals on the property in question.
It's important to note that adequate feed supplies do not necessarily indicate horses are receiving appropriate care, says Silver. "I have seen the same bags of feed in one spot for months, hay in the barn, and none put out," she says. "I have plenty of pictures of emaciated horses with plenty of feed on the property."
Investigators must also be aware that owners facing possible criminal prosecution and the subsequent loss of their animals might use ruses to explain their animals' condition, says Geoff Tucker, DVM, who worked alongside animal welfare authorities in New York state before focusing his veterinary practice on equine dentistry. Tucker says some owners will admit their animals' condition is due to their own lack of horse keeping knowledge. Others lie outright about the animals' circumstances, he says.
"Some people are just skilled liars and will tell you that the horse is too thin because it's old or because they got it that way or because they rescued it and haven't had time to fatten it up," Tucker says. "Humane officers have to do more than just look at the horse; they have to look at the owners too."
No matter the owners' verbal explanation, when it comes to bringing equine cruelty cases through the court system, prosecutors must look at the evidence, says attorney Jane Merrill, who served as an assistant prosecutor in Greenwood County, S.C., before moving into private practice. And humane officers must be especially skilled evidence gatherers since animals cannot be their own advocates. "That is, the horse can't come to court and say, for example, 'My wallet was stolen,'?" Merrill says.
The evidence gathered at the scene during the investigation must be as detailed and accurate as possible. That's because over the time it takes the case to go through the courts, the condition of the property and the horses, especially if they have been seized, will change. Meanwhile, the legal counsel representing the accused horse owners will present their own evidence on the owners' behalf.
"You only get to gather that evidence and take those photographs once, so good evidence gathering is crucial," Merrill says.
Decision Time
Once attorneys on both sides of the case have made their arguments, it's up to a judge and jury to determine the final outcome based on evidence. Judges must also interpret and apply local animal welfare laws as they understand them. However, how judges do this depends on the clarity and scope of the animal cruelty laws within their ¬jurisdictions.
In some states, including California, Maryland, and Ohio, minimum care standards dictate appropriate horse care in detail. Authorities cite those standards when investigating and resolving equine cruelty and neglect cases in those states. As noted earlier, animal welfare laws vary according to jurisdiction. In some states county officials can write and adopt their own animal welfare statutes based on the minimum standards of care. Elsewhere state legislators write and pass those laws. (See how the Animal Legal Defense Fund rates your state laws atwww.aldf.org.)
In addition, depending upon the jurisdiction, laws governing the humane treatment of livestock vary from those that address cruelty toward companion animals such as dogs and cats. And in some cases animal cruelty law language is so very vague that the judges might not know how to best interpret it, says Nicole Walukewicz, chair of the board of directors for Palmetto Equine Awareness and Rescue League, in South Carolina.
As a result, Walukewicz would like to see the government establish an unfunded mandate instructing county governments in states nationwide to develop, fund, and enforce their own animal cruelty laws.
"I don't like government mandates, but we've got to start thinking out of the box," Walukewicz says. "We've got to address these cruelty cases in a rational manner."
In the meantime, Schofield says law enforcement does its best to keep horses safe. "The horses can't speak for themselves, so we have to protect them," he says. "It's up to us to do what's right."
Marge
Kindness and humility toward all sentient beings, human and animal, are practices that open your heart and allows you to have true compassion.

(Note from Brandi: This was forwarded from a friend who is fighting this guy.)

I know it's off topic, but I would rather others know what is going on and not get duped by this guy Dennis Lorenz like a bunch of us did!Well, guess I'm not getting my hay or money willingly from Lorenz... so gonna go the court route!Just an FYI... In an email from Bill Whitman, employee of Lorenz Farm Service/North American Agri-Service, dated July 6th, states that they have contracts to supply 175 TSC stores with hay, and suggested that we "slip by our local TSC" to see what they are able to supply. So I'm wondering how the TSC stores will feel about having a vendor who would do something like this to MANY of their loyal customers?
Feel free to share this news link and info... anywhere you'd like. ;-)http://www.stonycreeklifestyle.com/news.asp?id=847

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New post on Tuesday's Horse
Quarter Horse trainer Bassett banned 10 years for frog juice
by VGFarrell
Cross-posted the Paulick Report RAY PAULICK reports: John H. Bassett, a past American Quarter Horse Association champion trainer and two-time winner of the sport’s premier event, the All-American Futurity, has been suspended a total of 10 years and fined $10,000 after two horses in his care tested positive for the prohibited Class 1 drug dermorphin. [...]
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VGFarrell | Sep 24, 2012 at 11:04 am | Tags: aqua champions, dermorphin, doping racehorses, frog juice, horse racing cheaters, john bassett, new mexico, ruidoso | Categories: Horse Racing | URL:http://wp.me/p6VVi-6Dm
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(Note from Brandi: The officer in this story is wonderful! He broke his leg trying to help these guys and continued to monitor them! He deserves a huge card shower and lots of good comments! Oh and read his comment at the bottom of the story…it is a great one to share with potential first time horse owners.)

For the Tennessee Walking Horse
--
NEWS and ARTICLES - McConnell Sentencing
Posted: 18 Sep 2012 04:59 PM PDT
The verdict has come down: $75,000 fine to be paid in 9 months and 3 years probation. He must also write a letter "on the soring of horses, telling about the pain it causes and the longterm effect as well as the type of people who seek out others to sore horses. The letter is also to state how widespread the practice of horse soring is." (Chattanoogan article, copied and pasted below)
While this isn't as big as everyone wanted, it's still huge. This WILL hurt McConnell, and it's a clear message to the rest of the industry: the government is no longer playing games and is serious about ending this atrocity.
Although I can't figure out how Greenholtz can call McConnell a "man of integrity" and "honesty" when he deliberately broke the last for the past 30 years and abused animals to do it... Anyway...
Here's my $2 worth. (I don't say cents because we all know it will be more than a couple of pennies!)
The sentencing may seem like it's not much. But $75,000 is going to RUIN McConnell, as is a 3-year probation that I'm sure is going to be closely watched. This is not a person who has $75K lying around--he's going to have to sell stuff to pay it. This is a man who's built his livelihood on abusing animals, and now he's paying the very serious price. I imagine that now they're going to go after the $150K he owes from the first 5-year probation, and that's going to hurt even worse.
This is also a very clear indication to the industry that 1) the gov't is no longer going to stand back and not do anything about this and "trust" the industry to do their job, and, 2) they aren't going to get a slap on the wrist anymore when they're caught soring horses.
This sentencing opens the door for more prosecution and stronger sentencing to come. The judge and the prosecution attorneys are serious about this law now, and this is going to affect the entire industry and get more and more of these monsters into the courtroom and away from the horses.
This sentencing also opens up the gates for HR 6388 to be passed. Anyone who watches the HSUS video will realize that soring is widespread and that the current HPA does not have enough teeth. This sentencing will make the legislation want to see stronger penalties.
The TWH BL has become a HUGE black spot on the horse community at large. It is a small percent of the TWH world, but that percentage has been babied and doted upon to where it is the prominent image of this breed, and now new blood isn't going to come in. These people were warned for many years to end soring, but they wouldn't do it. Now they're going to pay for it, and no one feels less sorry for them than me. This sentencing should show them that 1) we all know their big giant horrible secret, and 2) there is no longer any place to hide.
A HUGE thank you goes out to Steve Neff for his hard work on this case, and Judge Sandy Mattice for seeing the truth behind this horrible man.
The Chattanoogan: Sept 18, 2012 - McConnell Gets $75,000 Fine, 3 Years Probation In Horse Abuse Case (text is copied and pasted below)
Timesfreepress.com: Sept 18, 2012 - Tennessee walking horse trainer Jackie McConnell gets three years of probation, $75,000 fine
Timesfreepress.com: Sept 18, 2012 - Co-defendants in federal horse case get probation
HSUS website: Sept 18, 2012 - The HSUS Responds to Federal Court’s Sentencing of Former Tennessee Walking Horse Trainer Jackie McConnell
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McConnell Gets $75,000 Fine, 3 Years Probation In Horse Abuse Case
Tuesday, September 18, 2012, TheChattanoogan.com
Federal Judge Sandy Mattice on Tuesday afternoon ordered Jackie McConell to pay a $75,000 fine and be on probation for three years for horse abuse.
Attorneys for the Collierville, Tn. trainer said he will need to sell some of his assets to pay the large fine. The judge gave him nine months to do so.
He must also write a letter on the soring of horses, telling about the pain it causes and the longterm effect as well as the type of people who seek out others to sore horses. The letter is also to state how widespread the practice of horse soring is.
McConnell also must forfeit a 40-foot horse trailer that was seized.
Prosecutor Steve Neff asked that McConnell no longer be allowed to own horses, but Judge Mattice ordered that he inform probation officials on his ownership and involvement with horses during the probation period.
The prosecutor said McConnell exhibited "a complete disregard for federal laws over a period of over 30 years."
But attorney Tom Greenholtz said, "Mr. McConnell is a man of integrity. Mr. McConnell is a man of honesty. This is not the worst man in the world."
Those in the audience included former Senator Joseph Tydings, who was the sponsor of the Horse Protection Act in 1970, and Keith Dane, director of equine protection for the Humane Society of the United States.
Mr. Dane said afterward that the trainer "has shown no remorse. For decades his income was based on the torture of horses."
He said the federal law protecting horses "was passed 42 years ago and this is only the third person who has been convicted. Only one has gone to jail." Previously, trainer Barney Davis got a one-year sentence and $4,000 fine in Chattanooga Federal Court. His prison sentence was based on obstruction of justice, rather than the horse law.
Former Senator Tydings said horse owners in Tennessee and Kentucky "for decades have tortured horses by altering them with a phony gait that is based on violent cruelty to the horses. In Tennessee, the officials have known what is going on, but they have done nothing about this 'big lick.'
"It's been about the culture, the money, the celebration. They don't give a d--- about the poor horses."
In the McConnell case, both sides had agreed that he would receive probation. Judge Mattice asked a number of questions about that condition, asking, "Why should my hands be tied?" After a long discussion and a recess, he said he had decided to accept the plea agreement "in toto."
Attorney Greenholtz said the 60-year-old McConnell has a number of health issues and has "no income" since the U.S. Department of Agriculture put down a lifetime ban against him taking part in the horse industry about a month ago.
He said his health insurance costs $1,200 a month and medication from $350 to $600 a month.
Prosecutor Neff said McConnell on numerous occasions had been able to go around restrictions put on him after he was caught soring horses or set up others to do so. He asked for the same restrictions under the probation as is being set down by the Department of Agriculture. But the judge did not go that far in his order.
He said with McConnell "I think this really is a lifetime ban. I think it is different this time."
Judge Mattice noted there had been "a media blitz" about the case and he had received hundreds of letters both for and against the defendant.
The case gained widespread attention after the Humane Society obtained a secret videotape showing McConnell abusing horses. It was the subject of a TV documentary.
Two other defendants, Jeff Dockery and Joseph R. Abernathy got probation. They also are to write letters on the subject of horse soring.
Dockery, 54, said McConnell set him up as a trainer and paid for his application. Abernathy, 30, said he is a farrier who was not involved in soring but in transporting horses.
Abernathy said, "I do feel remorse and this will make me a better person in the end."
McConnell made a short statement in court, apologizing to his family, friends and co-workers.
The Humane Society afterward issued this statement:
“Like many others in the Tennessee walking horse industry, Jackie McConnell has a long history of abusing horses for the sake of a blue ribbon and the profits that go along with it. He and his associates were caught on tape using painful chemicals on horses’ legs, and whipping, kicking and shocking them in the face—all to force them to perform the unnatural 'Big Lick' gait in competitions. The Humane Society of the United States is grateful that the U.S. Attorney took on this important case and sent a message that soring will not be tolerated. It was our hope that McConnell would do prison time for these terrible crimes, but there are gaps in the federal law that need to be strengthened.”
In the wake of the McConnell case, The HSUS has worked with a bipartisan group of federal lawmakers on the introduction of legislation to strengthen the Horse Protection Act (H.R. 6388, the Horse Protection Act Amendments of 2012). We are calling on Congress to take action on the legislation in the lame duck session of Congress. The bill simply fortifies the current law, and the only reason anyone in the Walking Horse industry would oppose this legislation is if they want to continue to sore horses.
McConnell and two others are also scheduled to appear in court later this month to face 31 counts of violating Tennessee’s state animal cruelty statute.
Facts:
Although the Horse Protection Act was signed into law more than 40 years ago, the systematic abuse of Tennessee walking horses continues unabated. Trainers have devised a gruesome array of techniques to make it painful for these majestic horses to step down, so they will lift their front legs extremely high in the prize-winning, unnatural gait known as “the Big Lick.”
The state and federal charges against McConnell and his associates follow another recent federal criminal prosecution involving the practice of horse soring. In November 2011, former trainer Barney Davis pleaded guilty to violations of the Horse Protection Act. He was sentenced by a federal judge to serve more than a year in prison.
A 2010 USDA Office of Inspector General audit exposed how players in the walking horse industry work to evade detection, rather than comply with federal law and train horses humanely. The audit stated that the USDA needs more funding for full enforcement of the Act, and recommended stiffer penalties for violators and the abolishment of the industry’s failed system of self-enforcement.
H.R. 6388, the Horse Protection Act Amendments of 2012, co-sponsored by Reps. Ed Whitfield, R-Ky., and Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill., and Jim Moran, D-Va., will end the failed system of industry self-policing, ban the use of certain devices associated with soring, strengthen penalties, and hold accountable all those involved in this cruel practice.
U.S. Attorney Bill Killian said, “The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes cases and enforces the law as it is written. As presently constituted, the defendant’s acts of soring the horses are not themselves federal crimes. They are misdemeanors under state animal cruelty laws. The defendant committed federal misdemeanor offenses when he conspired to transport the sored horses and enter them into nationwide competitions. He committed federal felony offenses when he instructed others to falsify horses’ entry paperwork at the shows to indicate that someone other than the defendant was the actual trainer of a horse. He did this to shield himself from scrutiny as a result of having been disqualified from training and entering horses into competition by administrative sanctions of the USDA. This five-year administrative disqualification stemmed from the defendant’s numerous previous violations of the Horse Protection Act."
The U.S. Attorney said McConnell in his plea agreement on file with the U.S. District Court in Chattanooga "admitted to conspiring with others to violate the Horse Protection Act in various ways. At all times relevant to the charges in the indictment, he was on suspension from entering horses into shows. Nevertheless, he continued to train horses by soring, transporting, entering, and showing them at horse shows while on suspension. He trained horses using illegal soring methods such as the application of banned chemicals to the horses’ pasterns, which caused painful burning to their legs. McConnell then arranged for them to be taken to the shows, where he stayed on the grounds outside the warm-up areas, as required due to his disqualified status, and directed others how to show the horse. At the shows, he submitted entry paperwork which falsely stated that someone else was the trainer of the sored horses. He took steps to
camouflage the damage to the horses by instructing others to apply magic markers and other masking devices to the horses’ legs prior to inspection."
He also said, "The case arose from an undercover investigation conducted by the Humane Society of the United States, which resulted in the creation of evidence instrumental to the case. The USDA Office of InspectorGeneral and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the follow-up investigation, including the execution of search warrants at McConnell’s temporary stables in Shelbyville and his barn in Collierville during the 2011 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration."
He commended Special Agent Julie McMillan, U.S Department of Agriculture, "for her initiative, persistence and diligence in investigating and highlighting this problem to the U.S.Attorney’s Office. Her performance and the excellent work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steve Neff and Kent Anderson, resulted in this conviction, sentence and forfeiture. We will continue to investigate and prosecute cases involving violations ofthe Horse Protection Act as we do in other areas of federal law. The impact in these cases has been far beyond any level that we might have imagined.”
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New post on Canadian Horse Defence Coalition's Blog
Camelot auction news
by canadianhorsedefencecoalition
ON THE RAIL -- The Camelot Auction, the focal point of a movement to save horses from slaughter, may not shut down Sept. 26 as planned. The facility in Cranbury wasn't sold at auction Sept. 8 as owners Monica and Farnk Carper had hoped. While Monica Carper said conversations related to the sale are ongoing, she is no longer sure when the final auction will be held.
The Carpers are moving to Kentucky and ending their New Jersey business in part because of what Monica Carper called "harassment" by the state. The couple and the state Department of Agriculture were at odds for more than a year, with the state declining to renew Camelot's license so the Carpers could sell equines. The state maintained in a statement last year that it "repeatedly requested (Camelot's owners) to provide full and accurate copies of sales records and have submitted incomplete and/or inaccurate information. Livestock dealers must present accurate records in order to be licensed by the department."
Monica Carper contended she had done nothing wrong, saying she had made her case known "to everybody from the Governor on down" but got no satisfaction in efforts to get someone to sit down with her "and straighten it out."
She said anyone interested in buying the Camelot property and continuing an auction would have concerns about whether they would have problems with the state, and maintained that her business had lost value as a result. The matter has been the subject of court proceedings, with another session slated for October.
Several thousand horses were saved from death over the last few years as the auction house cooperated with rescue groups and other concerned people working through the Camelot Horse Weekly, a Facebook page showcasing equines that did not sell at the auction and otherwise might have gone to slaughter.
The Carpers are planning to move to Kentucky at some point. Monica Carper said they would be interested in working with the Horse Weekly or others parties interested in a similar operation there...
Reposted from:http://www.nj.com/sports/njsports/index.ssf/2012/09/end_of_a_partnership_marks_a_n.html
canadianhorsedefencecoalition | September 17, 2012 at 12:05 | Categories: Uncategorized | URL:http://wp.me/pUJ26-14o
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This is the ultimate hypocrisy.
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New post on Tuesday's Horse
New AQHA equipment rules to ensure horse welfare
by VGFarrell
EDITED PRESS RELEASE Cross-posted from TheHorse.com The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Executive Committee has adjusted some rules regarding equipment use at all AQHA-approved shows and has approved a structure of fines and penalties that will be assessed to violators of these rules, the organization announced Sept. 14. All of these changes are based on [...]
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VGFarrell | Sep 17, 2012 at 2:07 pm | Tags: aqha, curb bits, curb chains, curb straps, draw reins, horse welfare, martingales, new rules, quarter horses | Categories: Horse Abuse | URL:http://wp.me/p6VVi-6AA
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Fourteen years ago today, on Sept. 17, 1998, the course ofDebi Bailey Metcalfe's life changed without any thought or intentions on her part. After a 51-week journey to recover her husband's stolen horse, Idaho, Debi quit her job and dedicated her life to helping other victims. She has been an advocate for the horses, an ally to total strangers, and a champion for victims. I am proud to call this strong and dedicated lady my
friend. Here is here story:http://www.netposse.com/article.asp?id=67

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New post on Tuesday's Horse
Horses put down in Canada as racing industry declines
by VGFarrell
What a tragic state of affairs in Canada. The impact of the anticipated termination by the Ontario government in 2013 of a program that sent $345-million from slot-machine revenues to race tracks in 2011 is being felt in 2012. Already three of 17 race tracks have closed. Ontario is throwing somewhat of a lifeline to [...]
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VGFarrell | Sep 15, 2012 at 8:03 am | Tags: canada, horses euthanized, ontario, roger attfield, slots-at-racetracks program, standardbred racing, thoroughbred racing | Categories: Horse Breeding, Horse Racing | URL: http://wp.me/p6VVi-6Ac
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Thank you so much for the difficult but wonderful work You do.
This YouTube \"Dolly\'s Story\" is about an emaciated QH I bought for $60. I thought you and your staff might like to see it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OM85K8USxQU
Horse Rescue Story on Kindle is Trophies, An Equestrian Romance which is also, in part the fictionalized story of an equestrian who is given a horse headed for slaughter but becomes a winning Grand Prix show jumper. It was originally published by Signet/NAL. Here\'s a synopsis:
Trophies takes you into to the true heart of the horse world, its intrigues, money, cut-throat competition, triumphs, and tragedies. In its details of struggle, betrayal, loss, and love, it\'s one of the most realistic novels ever published about equine sport and the personalities who drive it.
Diana Winston has a dream—to rise to the top of this sport. But obstacles over five feet high and six feet wide are not her only hurdles. With no bankroll and no family, she has but two friends: Olympic gold medal winner Jim Williams helps her navigate the world of the rich and entitled while guarding a secret that will break Diana’s heart.
The second friend is Dr. Steve Rodriguez. A renowned Mexican virologist, he lost everything, including loved ones, in the 1985 Mexico City earthquake. Overwhelmed with guilt and depression, he enters the United States illegally and, concealing his past, takes up a lowly position as a groom. Drawn to Diana\'s energy and talent, he presents her with a slaughter-bound stallion, declaring that this horse can take her to the pinnacle of show jumping.
As Diana presses ahead at a Grand Prix event in Newport, she meets Dr. Bill Stanford, a brilliant neurosurgeon and horse show enthusiast. Bill is deeply attracted to her and determines he must radically change his personal and professional life.
The early AIDS epidemic is raging and Diana finds herself drawn into the terrifying world of one of its victims.
A classic novel of the horse world, originally released by Signet/New American Library, Trophies
is an action-filled romance that brings together the worlds of show jumping and medicine, as well as the compelling characters who inhabit them.
I do hope you like the YouTube and hope the Trophies might offer you some diversion from the heroic work you do.
Sincerely,
Ainslie Sheridan

Our little sanctuary here in NY is eligible for grant funds from Chase Giving. In order to get grant we need votes from supporters. We need all the help we can get. We currently have 35 rescue horses. Can you take a moment and vote? Share with friends and family? Each person gets two votes on FB, and if they are a Chase customer they get 2 more votes
online at chasegiving.com
You can make all the difference, and it costs nothing but your time :)
The FB site has been running slow, please try again if you don't get on. Check the charity list for your favorites, you can only use one vote for us- please help another charity also! Thanks for your time, and all your support! Beth
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Want to know what Animals Angels is up to??? Want to meet the people who do all the assort work that is done by Animals Angels??Then join us on our blog, comments are welcome, ideas are as always welcome, etc. So mark our blog in your favorites and follow us. THANK YOUhttp://animalsangelsblog.wordpress.com/

Northstar, a 6 year old horse is suffering terribly after being intentionally set on fire in a horrible act of animal cruelty in Crawford County, PA.
Police are still seeking the suspects and are actively seeking leads on the case. In the meantime, Northstar needs help for his medical costs on his long road to recovery.
If you have information on this horrible act of cruelty,
call PA State Police at 814-663-2043.
A $1000 reward is being offered for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.http://www.helpnorthstar.com/#!home/mainPage
Marge
"Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success"

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New post on Tuesday's Horse
Broward Sheriff’s Office search for horse slaughter suspects
by VGFarrell
by LOCAL 10 NEWS MIAMI, FLORIDA Watch video report >> SOUTHWEST RANCHES, Fla. - The Broward Sheriff's Office was looking for thieves Tuesday who stole a horse and then slaughtered him about two blocks from his home in Southwest Ranches. About 7 a.m. Saturday, David Sangiao-Parga told deputies Marco, his 8-year-old retired racehorse, had been [...]
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VGFarrell | Aug 22, 2012 at 10:02 am | Tags: black market, broward sheriff's office, david parga, florida, horse meat, Horse Slaughter, marcos, miami, pet horse butchered | Categories: Horse Slaughter | URL: http://wp.me/p6VVi-6iY
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(Note from Brandi: This is from a forward, so I don’t know anything more than what you see here.)

Lots of Spay/Neuter promos/grant funds in GA right now...

GET THE WORD OUT!
Please spread the word if you are in any of these communities... there is no EXCUSE for anyone to not spay their dogs w/ all of these wonderful programs available. ---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Lesha Martin <spayneutercoalition@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, Aug 4, 2012 at 7:35 PM
Subject: Lots of Spay/Neuter promos/grant funds in GA right now...
To: Lesha Martin <spayneutercoalition@gmail.com>
LOTS of Spay/Neuter grant funds and specials out there right now for "owned" or strayed pets! Here are some...

Bartow, Bledsoe, Catoosa, Chatooga, Dade, Floyd, Gordon, Grundy, Marion, Sesquatchie, Walker, Whitfield Counties, GA!
Wally's Friends Spay/Neuter Clinic has a transport coming to your area!
They can spay kittens, cats, puppies and dogs at a great price! They also have a $10 off special this month (August) for all cat spays/neuters! Make your appt. today!

Thanks to a grant from Petsmart Charities, the "Primp Your Pit" event will take also place in August and all Pit Bulls/Pit Mixes are only $20! That includes spay/neuter AND Rabies Vaccine! WOW! Please call
today and mention this ad! This offer is available to all "owned/strayed" Pit
Bulls and Pit Bull mixes, through Wally's Friends Spay/Neuter Clinic (residency NOT required). Call NOW 423-877-9966 to get your appt. in!
See schedule here>>>

Athens, Cartersville, Commerce, Covington, Fairburn, Griffin, Jefferson, Lawrenceville, Loganville, Madison, Monroe, Oxford and Winder, GA! There is a new mobile spay/neuter vet that comes to your area for puppies/dogs/kittens/cats! See website for scheduled, prices and info

Do you know of someone needing to get their BIG dog in to be spayed/neutered, in the N. Metro ATL area? Georgia Animal Project can help! Thanks to current grant funding, there are subsidy funds available to those who have a hard time even with the standard low cost fees, to make it "do-able" for them. This is available for "owned" dogs (over 40 pounds), residency NOT required (can live in any county of GA)! See link to make your appt. and if you "share" PLEASE copy/past this important text with the link. Thanks!http://theanimalproject.org/Scheduling.html

Hall County, GA (and surrounding counties)! The Humane Society of Northeast Georgia is running a "Snip More, Save More" spay/neuter special in August! Owned pets can make their appointments with the fabulous low cost spay/neuter and wellness center in Gainesville, GA http://www.humanesocietyofnortheastgeorgia.org/snip-more-save-more
Coweta County, GA (and surrounding counties)! It's time to PRIMP YOUR PIT! Thanks to a grant from PetSmart Charities, H.E.L.P. Spay/Neuter Clinic is running a "Primp Your Pit" special during the month of August 2012. Spay/Neuter your "owned" Pit Bull or Pit Bull mix for $20! Can you believe it?! Spaces are limited so call for your appointment: 770-304-7911http://www.helpspayneuter.org/http://www.helpspayneuter.org/
Dalton, Elberton, Winder (and surroundings counties), GA! Leftover Pets operates low cost spay/neuter clinics for kittens, cats, puppies and dogs! If they are 8 weeks/2 lbs, they can be spayed/neutered and NEVER be a part of an unwanted litter! See link to make your appointment... http://www.leftoverpets.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=54

Lesha Martin
President, Spay/Neuter Coalition, Inc.
(A Georgia 501c3 non-profit organization)
Spay/Neuter Coalition, Inc. is a Georgia non-profit group, dedicated to educating about and implementing more spay and neuter via education, outreach, collaborating and networking efforts.
--
STOP CANINE PROFILING. BSL IS BS
Please DO NOT add me to your email list without my permission.
You cannot email me at patti-stinson@googlegroups.com. You can reach me atpattistinson13@hotmail.com
My rules of responsible rescue -http://mysite.verizon.net/vze14iauy/id12.html
I no longer use language that accepts the current concept of animals as property, commodities and/or things. Rather than refer to myself and others as "owners" of animals, I now refer to myself and others as "guardians" of our animal companions and to animals as "he" or "she" rather than "it". I urge you to do the same.

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New post on Tuesday's Horse
Girl’s five-mile ride saves horse from blaze
by VGFarrell
Cross-posted from the Norman Transcript WRITTEN BY CHRIS JONES NORMAN, Okla. (Aug. 11, 2012) -- Gulfwind Wild Finale “Rocky” is a champion, high strung and not easily loaded into a horse trailer. In the midst of wildfires and 113-degree heat, Cortney Townsend made a harrowing five-mile ride to get Rocky away from danger. Cortney began [...]
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VGFarrell | Aug 12, 2012 at 10:08 am | Tags: celtic cross, cortney, Heroes for Horses, norman, oklahoma, rocky, wildfires | Categories: Heroes for Horses | URL: http://wp.me/p6VVi-6bv
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New post on Tuesday's Horse
With 11 dead Judge says Feds can auction Zetas drug case horses
by VGFarrell
HORSES confiscated in a criminal case as "evidence" are typically taken care of pending the outcome. However, in this instance the Judge is allowing federal prosecutors to the horses at auction before the case goes to trial. DALLAS, Tex. -- (AP) A federal judge in Texas is allowing prosecutors to sell more than 400 racehorses [...]
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VGFarrell | Aug 6, 2012 at 4:46 pm | Tags: Horse Racing, judge sam sparks, mexican drug cartel, new mexico, oklahoma, quarter horses, zetas | Categories: Horse Racing | URL: http://wp.me/p6VVi-65O
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Stamp Out Starvation of Horses (S.O.S.) marks a very proud milestone in our organization's history. We have achieved verified status by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) www.sanctuaryfederation.org/gfas/home/ .

"GFAS publicly advocates for the compelling need to actively support accredited sanctuaries. GFAS is bringing recognition and support to legitimate sanctuaries around the globe, while illegitimate commercial operators or substandard roadside menageries that merely call themselves a “sanctuary” are exposed to the public. Donors and foundations can rely on GFAS to objectively verify that animal sanctuaries are providing animals the standards of care that they deserve."

(Note from Brandi: I don’t know anything more than what you see here. Please check them out thoroughly before donating.)

Dear friends, horse owners, advocates, rescuers,

This is a crucial time for horses in the US. There are many great efforts in motion, including rescues, lobby initiatives, sanctuaries, etc. I'm sure many of you agree that education is at the heart of any real sustainable solution that improves lives for horses.

I've been working with a very passionate team on an important feature-length documentary called "Horsepower". We are several months into production and have developed a ton of compelling material, new insights, as well as a passionate following.

Our goal is to educate not only those currently involved with equine affairs, but to broadly re-educate the US on the importance of horses in American history, the horse as a cultural icon and powerful being, and the disturbing and unfortunate equine issues we are grappling with in this country. While many rescues and notable efforts are in need of funding, we firmly believe this film will stimulate support to help thousands of horses across America, and also reconnect people with horses and encourage reconnection with nature, in general, which I personally feel is critically important.

We're asking for financial contribution, yes, we cannot be shy with this important cause. And thanks so much to those of you who have already supported us. But if this does not grab you in that way or if you cannot to contribute, please share this with many, or even a few select people that you feel may be compelled to help.

Please watch the fundraising video (on either web site). Even if you cannot contribute, you may find it compelling and interesting to watch.

Again, thank you for taking the time to learn about this project, and for your support. Feedback, ideas, input are always welcome.

~Ry

*We found you either directly, through a friend or previous communication and do not intend to "spam" you. We will not be sending many emails, but please respond if you do not wish to receive further communication.

Thu Jun 21, 2012 3:57 pm (PDT)
Florida Mare Found Butchered
by: Pat Raia
June 05 2012, Article # 20125
A 15-year-old Florida mare belonging to a cancer-stricken owner was discovered dead, apparently butchered for meat.
Richard Couto, president and head investigator for the Animal Rescue Mission said that on May 31 the mare’s remains were discovered in a wooded area near Northwest 138th St. in Hialeah Gardens, Fla. The horse whose owner suffers from terminal cancer was found 200 yards from its stable, Couto said. The animal had been tied to a tree, stabbed and dismembered by an experienced butcher for its meat, he said.
"Whoever did this was either a professional butcher or someone who had butchered hundreds of horses," Couto said. "They knew what they were doing."
The incident is under investigation, Couto said.
Anyone with information about the incident should call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477).
a.. Print b.. Email c.. Add to Favorites d.. ShareThis e..
Marge
"Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success"

Sun Jun 17, 2012 7:26 am (PDT)
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----- Original Message -----
From: Straight from the Horse's Heart
Sent: Sunday, June 17, 2012 6:55 AM
Subject: [New post] Ann Romney’s Horse Comes in Third in Olympic Qualifying Event
New post on Straight from the Horse's Heart
Ann Romney’s Horse Comes in Third in Olympic Qualifying Event
by R.T. Fitch
"My apologies as I am not waxing political on you here, although our current President has done NOTHING to help our horses, but it is difficult to find good equine news to share with you on Sunday. There are a lot of things that we need to accomplish over the next 48 hours but for today, this is a story of a woman who sought out horses, late in life, and they healed her in a way that only horses can. This is success story and we as advocates are fortunate that someone in the political spotlight is pro-horse and understands the spiritual connection that we share with our equine partners. Politics aside, Ann Romney's story is one of success and could even help to elevate our nation's understanding and appreciation for the American horse, both wild and domestic, that we love and know so well. Have a great Sunday as tomorrow it is back to work. Be safe and keep the faith." ~ R.T.
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R.T. Fitch | June 17, 2012 at 5:55 AM | Tags: ABC News, Ann Romney, Equestrianism, Equus (genus), Horse, Multiple sclerosis | Categories: Horse News | URL: http://wp.me/pyapj-43D
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Jun 14, 2012 Patricia Lee This cruelty has been allowed to go on for years & nothing gets done. Once again money and fame come first. Shame on everyone who is cruel & even more shame for those who know & turn a blind eye to it like TWBEA.

NOW YOU KNOW WHY SO MANY RESCUE WALKERS ARE BONKERS TOO BAD THEY CAN’T RETALLIATE

ON THE OTHER HAND KUDO’S TO PEPSI FOR PULLING THEIR SPONSORSHIP

Pepsi pulls sponsorship of horse show after controversial footage airs

Soft-drink giant Pepsi announced Thursday that it would no longer sponsor a national horse show, thanks to startling footage aired by ABC News of a horse in training. The video showed the horse undergoing an abusive practice known as "soring." (Warning: Video may be upsetting to some viewers.)
Pepsi had sponsored the Walking Horse National Celebration since 2010, said the horse show, which is the nation's leading competition for Tennessee Walking Horses – a breed whose best-known attribute is its unique high-stepping gait. Pepsi spokesman Vincent Bozek confirmed, without elaborating, that the company has "ended our sponsorship of the event." Nor would horse-show officials explain the specific reason for the end of the relationship.
But according to Reuters, a Walking Horse showing insider, who chose to remain anonymous, thinks it's thanks to the ABC News footage of "soring," filmed by a Humane Society of the United States undercover operative and given to ABC News for broadcast. Keith Dane, the HSUS director of equine protection, said that an activist got a job in a horse barn and taped the abuse in March and April of last year, as part of an undercover investigation. The video (linked here; be aware that it contains disturbing footage) shows Walking Horses getting beaten with wooden sticks and zapped with cattle prods, and enduring the application of caustic chemicals like mustard oil and diesel fuel to their ankles,
which were then wrapped in plastic and metal chains to increase the pain. The resulting soreness, which gives the practice of "soring" its name, induces the horse to lift its front legs in the show ring, creating the gait – a flinch, really, as "Nightline" correspondent Brian Ross noted -- for which the breed is famous. The electric shocks "help" the horses develop an insensitivity to pain; if show judges check for evidence of soring or other abusive practices used to create the gait, the logic goes, the horse won't react.
Soring had become such a problem in the TWH community that the industry cracked down in 2009, creating an organization to investigate the practice and hiring vets to check up on horses and shows. The organization's president, Dr. Stephen Mullins, found the video disgusting: "I don't condone that at all." (Jackie McConnell, the trainer who, along with his employees, was caught on the tape, had no comment for ABC News, and showed no remorse. McConnell was the go-to trainer for rich owners who wanted their Tennessee Walking Horses to dominate the competition; he's now facing a federal indictment.) Mullins told "Nightline" that the practices aren't even necessary, but he also said he didn't believe they were "rampant." Unfortunately, a random check of a recent horse show belied that statement; swabs of 52 horses found foreign substances on the legs of all 52 animals. (It wasn't Vaseline, either. "Benzene" is just one chemical
on the list shown by "Nightline.") And Jennie Johnson, another trainer interviewed on the program, thinks the problem is widespread.
The Humane Society frequently goes undercover to expose deplorable situations like this one; the HSUS and other animal-rights orgs have caught everything on video from chickens in overcrowded cages to sick cows dragged by tractors to nursing sows confined to crates. Some farm-state lawmakers have reacted poorly, passing laws to making "infiltrating" an agribusiness a crime. But some agriculture companies have made positive changes after seeing upsetting footage, agreeing to increase cage sizes or only buy from farms that let pigs walk free.

In the case of the horses, Dane said, they'd sent a camera into a show barn because the industry's attempts to police itself were ineffective. He hoped Pepsi's decision would get results. And it seems that the cola corporation got the fiscal attention of the Walking Horse National Celebration, at least. Chief executive Doyle Meadows issued a statement about gaining the trust of corporate partners, adding that "we would do nothing to destroy that relationship. As the Celebration moves forward to promote a sound horse we hope that everyone will assist in our efforts to promote this magnificent breed."
But it seems like it's the trust of, and relationship with, the equine partners that might need promoting.
The Walking Horse National Celebration is held in the late summer, in Shelbyville, Tennessee.

Wed Jun 6, 2012 4:24 am (PDT)
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New Website! No More Blogs!
by Jerry Finch
The new Habitat for Horses.org website is now online and the old site is but a memory. This is a collective scream of success for all of us. The old website was a collection of outdated information because we seldom had anyone available to keep it updated. The new website is updated from the office, [...]
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Jerry Finch | June 5, 2012 at 5:49 pm | Categories: Life and love in the world of horses | URL: http://wp.me/p1zH9q-bf
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Tue Jun 5, 2012 2:54 pm (PDT)
----- Original Message -----
From: Wayne Pacelle: A Humane Nation
Sent: Tuesday, June 05, 2012 5:05 PM
Subject: Stronger Federal Rule Announced to Impose Penalties against Horse Soring | Wayne Pacelle: A Humane Nation
Stronger Federal Rule Announced to Impose Penalties against Horse Soring | Wayne Pacelle: A Humane Nation
--
Stronger Federal Rule Announced to Impose Penalties against Horse Soring
Posted: 05 Jun 2012 01:20 PM PDT
The abuse of Tennessee walking horses has been in the news since The HSUS released video footage of one of the industry’s top trainers striking a horse in the face with a wooden handle and pouring injurious chemicals onto the feet of a horse. It was four decades ago that Congress passed the Horse Protection Act to prevent and criminalize soring and other abuses of horses. Tennessee state representative Janis Sontany wrote in a column in The Tennessean on Sunday: Soring has been a well-kept dirty secret in this industry and it’s time for this nonsense to end.
Photo: Lance Murphey
Abusive horse soring is a serious problem in the
Tennessee walking horse industry.
In 2010, The HSUS and a broad coalition of horse industry and animal protection groups filed a legal petition with the U.S. Department of Agriculture documenting that soring practices are rampant in the industry as part of trainers’ and owners' determination to produce the high-stepping gait, or big lick, glamorized in the show ring. The petition sought a number of regulatory changes to improve HPA enforcement including the implementation of a mandatory penalty structure.
Today, in the wake of the furor that’s resulted from the public witnessing the abusive practices documented in HSUS’s investigation, the USDA announced that there will be mandatory minimum penalties for violations of the law. Through the years, industry inspectors (part of what are known as Horse Industry Organizations cited some trainers for soring but penalties were not consistently meted out, and there was no therefore meaningful disincentive to stop the abuse.
Today’s announcement changes the equation and provides much-needed improvements in HPA enforcement finally providing some level of deterrence for lawbreakers. I commend Agriculture Secretary Vilsack for issuing this rule today.
As pleased as we are with USDA’s action, there’s additional reform that’s needed in order to root out soring. Animal protection groups, the American Association of Equine Practitioners, and the USDA’s own Inspector General have argued that the current system of industry self-regulation is fundamentally flawed. USDA inspectors should be doing the enforcement work, since they don’t have the inherent conflicts that industry personnel have.
That’s a task that Congress must complete. Federal legislators must amend the HPA to eliminate the industry’s role in enforcement of the Act, close loopholes that violators often slip through, and give the USDA the tools to fully protect this wonderful breed of horse, as Congress intended when it passed this law 42 years ago.
Since McConnell’s indictment, we’ve been hard at work bringing this abuse to the attention of state and federal authorities, urging them to do more to enforce and stiffen existing laws. We petitioned USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack asking him to treat the use of numbing and masking agents (used to camouflage evidence that a horse has been sored) as felony interference in enforcement of the HPA. And we asked the Tennessee Attorney General to investigate whether the current state cruelty law is being followed in reporting and prosecuting soring at horse shows in the state.
A recent analysis of the violation history of the top 20 trainers in the industry’s Riders Cup high point program found that every one of them was cited for HPA violations in the past two years, with a total 164 violations among them. How many served a suspension penalty? A mere 7 percent and of those, all but a handful were for a measly two-week period.
We will also be calling on the industry itself to take some common-sense steps, including ousting those who torment animals from the show ring, establishing a zero-tolerance policy for this criminal behavior, and adopting practices and policies that will secure a place in the future of American equestrian sport for this breed. We want to help the industry reform, rebuild, and regrow, with the good, law-abiding animal lovers at the helm, reaping the rewards of fair, humane and legal competition.
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Dennis Chavez, owner of Southwest Livestock Auction in Los Lunas, is facing 12 misdemeanor charges including four animal cruelty charges. The case stems from undercover video taken by an animal rights group in March.

Sun Apr 1, 2012 5:53 am (PDT)
A federal judge ordered the FDA to commence proceedings to remove approval for the use of antibiotics in animal feed unless they can prove the use is safe.
The FDA has been sitting on this issue since 1977!http://newsandinsight.thomsonreuters.com/Legal/News/2012/03_-_March/FDA_must_act_to_remove_antibiotics_from_animal_feed__judge/
FDA must act to remove antibiotics from animal feed: judge
newsandinsight.thomsonreuters.com
The judge cited concerns that overuse of antibiotics is endangering human health by creating antibiotic-resistant "superbugs."
Marge
"Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success"

Tue Mar 27, 2012 8:06 am (PDT)
Four British horse breeds critically endangered
By Horsetalk.co.nz on Mar 27, 2012 in News4
An Eriskay Pony.
Four British horse breeds are listed as critical in the latest update from the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.
The British trust considers a breed to be critical when the number of registered adult breeding female numbers fall below 300.
In the latest list, released last month, it listed the Cleveland Bay Horse, Eriskay Pony, Hackney Horse and Pony, and the Suffolk Horse in the critical category.
It formally listed the Dales Pony and Exmoor Pony as endangered – breeds with 300 to 500 registered adult breeding females.
Breeds listed as vulnerable, with 500 to 900 females, were the Clydesdale, Dartmoor Pony, and the Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A) Semi Feral.
Listed as at-risk, with 900 to 1500 breeding females, were the Fell Pony, Highland Pony and Shire Horse.
Marge
"Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success"

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New post on Canadian Horse Defence Coalition's Blog
Horse Graveyard Discovered In Desert East Of El Paso
by canadianhorsedefencecoalition
By ABC-7's Matt Dougherty
POSTED: 3:57 pm MDT March 16, 2012
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EL PASO, Texas -- On a secluded stretch of Red Sands west of Hueco Tanks, lies a swath of desert so remote and quiet, the buzzing of the flies is magnified to the audio level of fighter jets.
There are a lot of flies. More and more these days they are finding refuge amongst the remains of the many horse carcasses strewn about the desert sands. Horses that have been shot and dumped. The bullet holes are clear in the bleached skulls that have been there a while, more hidden in the fresher carcasses that were recently put to rest.
The full story can be read here:http://www.kvia.com/news/30697287/detail.html#.T2TLsg0pLIk.facebook
canadianhorsedefencecoalition | March 17, 2012 at 14:27 | Categories: Uncategorized | URL: http://wp.me/pUJ26-M9
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New post on Tuesday's Horse
NY Governor Andrew Cuomo makes inquiry into racehorse deaths at Aqueduct
by Vivian Grant
In a letter to the New York Racing Association, New York governor Andrew Cuomo calls for the organization to hire an independent investigator to look into the deaths of 16 horses since racing began on the inner-dirt track November 30th of last year. The number includes a horse who was euthanized Wednesday after injuring her [...]
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Vivian Grant | Mar 14, 2012 at 9:28 pm | Tags: andrew cuomo, aqueduct fatalities, charles hayward, hillsboro bay, new york racing authority, nyra, thoroughbred deaths, thoroughbred injuries | Categories: Horse Racing | URL: http://wp.me/p6VVi-52q
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Anyone missing horses from the Southern Indiana area hit by tornadoes can contact Kelly Carr of Saddle Up Arena at:502-645-2304. Saddle Up Arena is located at 178 North Badger Road, Madison, IN.
New post on Straight from the Horse's Heart
Kentucky Reports Many Horses Killed by March 2 Tornadoes
by R.T. Fitch
More and more the sad news is coming in of horse owners who have lost all or almost all of their horses in the March 2, 2012 tornadoes, often along with their homes and barns. Many horses who were not already dead had to be euthanized due to severe injuries they had suffered. Injured horses, other pets, and livestock have been keeping veterinarians in the area very busy.
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R.T. Fitch | March 5, 2012 at 3:01 AM | Tags: Horse, Indiana, Kentucky, Tornado | Categories: Horse News | URL: http://wp.me/pyapj-3II
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Wayne Pacelle: A Humane Nation
So sad to see the wonderful breed so abused.....
Shocking New HSUS Investigation Leads to Arrests, Horse Rescue
Posted: 01 Mar 2012 02:04 PM PST
A new HSUS undercover investigation released today shines a light on the dark side of the Tennessee walking horse industry and has led to the rescue of horses from one of the industry’s most notorious and abusive trainers.
A federal grand jury has handed down rare felony criminal indictments charging Jackie McConnell, a well-known Tennessee walking horse trainer, for multiple violations of the federal Horse Protection Act. Horse soring is the abusive practice of applying highly painful chemicals (such as mustard oil or kerosene) and heavy metal chains on horses’ lower front legs, forcing them to lift their feet in an exaggerated way in an effort to seek relief from the pain.
Read more about the investigation.
The goal of this cruelty? To produce the artificially high-stepping show-ring gait that wins fancy ribbons and prizes at Tennessee walking horse show competitions. McConnell and several of his associates have been indicted on 52 counts of violating the federal Horse Protection Act (including 18 felony counts), and also charged with numerous violations of the Tennessee Cruelty to Animals Statute.
In a related joint operation led by The HSUS, the U.S. Attorney for Eastern Tennessee, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of the Inspector General, and the 25th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, horses were rescued this morning from Jackie McConnell’s training operation and are now in the care of the HSUS Animal Rescue Team. For these lucky few, the nightmare of abuse is finally over.
The disturbing abuse uncovered by our investigator is sickening to watch. In addition to soring, our footage shows horses being brutally whipped, kicked, shocked in the face, and violently cracked across the skulls and legs with heavy wooden sticks. In some cases, their tails were mutilated with scissors and blades to make them appear flashier in the show ring―leaving behind untreated, bleeding wounds.
The HSUS has been pulling back the curtain on horse soring for decades, but this is the first successful undercover investigation of horse soring abuses by an animal protection group that has produced arrests and this kind of impact on the industry. We are grateful to the U.S. Attorney William C. Killian of the Eastern District of Tennessee, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven Neff and Kent Anderson, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, USDA’s Office of the Inspector General, and District Attorney General D. Michael Dunavant and Assistant District Attorney General Mark E. Davidson for the Tennessee 25th Judicial District for taking decisive action in this case.
Although this is the second major federal prosecution of horse soring in the last year, many trainers in the walking horse industry have repeatedly been found in violation of the Horse Protection Act, yet continue to train and sore horses for customers while on suspension from showing. Jackie McConnell was on a five-year federal disqualification from showing at the time of this investigation, yet continued to abuse horses and get them into the show ring. The HSUS is calling on Congress to increase funding for USDA’s enforcement of the Horse Protection Act, to crack down on this rampant abuse in the industry.

NORFOLK - In 2011, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals killed 96 percent of the animals in its care, according to documents from the Virginia Department of Agriculture.
Of the 2,050 animals PETA took in last year, 1,965 were euthanized, according to the records, which were obtained and published online by the non-profit Center for Consumer Freedom. Only 28 pets were adopted out, and 34 were transferred to other animal groups, the documents revealed.
Since 1998, PETA put down more than 27,000 animals at its Norfolk headquarters, the records showed. The majority of the pets euthanized over the years were cats and dogs surrendered by their owners.
A PETA spokesperson said the organization would rather give animals "a painless death" than risk putting them in a situation where they would be abused, neglected, or sold for research, in an interview last year with Newsweek.
Another representative said most animals taken in by PETA are "somehow unadoptable," according to a report by The Daily Caller.
The Center for Consumer Freedom posted the documents from the Department of Agriculture on its website, PETAKillsAnimals.com.

Fri Feb 17, 2012 1:35 pm (PST)
USDA official slams horse groups hard
Thursday, February 16, 2012
T-G STAFF REPORT
A Department of Agriculture representative who enforces the Horse Protection Act had critical comments for the local equine industry this past weekend.
Dr. Chester Gipson, Deputy Administrator for Animal Care with USDA-APHIS, met Saturday with members of the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) in Murfreesboro, telling members enforcement of the Act would be no different during the 2012 show season than it was last year.
But Gibson also told WHOA members that the Walking Horse industry had "no credible voice," warning that they are dividing themselves, and urging unity.
The rest of the story.... http://www.t-g.com/story/1816332.html
Marge
You can't be liberated in your thinking if you're conservative in your approach.

WordPress.com
Ya need to sit down to read this one!
New post on Canadian Horse Defence Coalition's Blog
Dental product uses horse bones
by canadianhorsedefencecoalition
A supporter posted the following on Facebook:
I work for an oral surgeon and yesterday a rep came in hawking their latest bone grafting particulate material.
They (Osteohealth) are no longer selling bone grafting particulate from bovines instead their new material is, well they call it Equimatrix!!!! (http://www.osteohealth.com/Equimatrix.aspx )
Yep you guessed it--horse!!!! And the company had the audacity to tell their sweet and very young rep that it was only produced from horses that were raised for medical experimentation!!!
I told her how horses were repeatedly stunned and could very well be alive when dismembered and that the horses went to Mexico and Canadain lots and that NO they are not separated and that her company was playing her for a fool.
Thankfully my boss stated that we would not be ordering any of that material. Good thing cuz after being here 31 years I'd hate to have to quit. Also heads up, if any of you get a dental implant with bone grafting make certain they are not using HORSE! Another front to fight horse slaughter on!
Another advocate pulled up this info and it was pointed out that if you look at their package insert in the lower right corner it states the bone comes fromSouth Korea. The normal dental bone grafting materials have always been either bovine or human cadaver or your own body such as your hip.
Equimatrix insert
If you are considering an implant at the time of a tooth extraction they will offer a bone graft to sustain the ridge. Not all implant services require bone grafts so ask to make certain that it truly is necessary and that they are not just padding your bill.
I have heard of some dentists that are now bone grafting wisdom teeth sockets on healthy young people. This can add $1600+ to your bill that is outside of your insurance coverage. I would refuse it and find myself another office.
Our office does not do that and quite frankly the bone heals in on its own in 6-8 weeks. You would never place an implant in the wisdom teeth area as most people have these removed as they are malposed and not useable anyway.
Bone grafting has valid uses in implant dentistry, just ask the questions to save your wallet from over zealous sales-dentists. And make certain to ask where that bone comes from to make certain that it fits in with your beliefs.
My final piece of advice is to be careful with these new mega-dental centers offering one day implants and all aspects of dentistry. They are "profit" driven, not "patient" driven. There are many situations where one day implants will not work and many disadvantages to this process. Make certain to ask how long it will be before you can "load" i.e. "eat" with these new implant based restorations. And that is my dental lesson for today folks.
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CONNECTICUT - This guy from 'NEEDFUL SOULS" is SELLING DOGS TO LABS URGENT PLEASE SHARE! **Read Immediately!! Do NOT allow to pull ANY dogs!!!****

"*Just to stress this... he WILL pull ANY breed, not just Pit Bulls (although, he does often seek Pits). He is essentially a "broker" and will sell to anyone or any testing facility willing to pay. His criminal/public record shows that his reasons for arrest have been theft and fraud. I have contacted some officials in Florida to see what can be done to stop this guy for good.

This is the perfect example of WHY every animal shelter and rescue group should ALWAYS check ref.'s before releasing animals to anyone! I cannot stress how important this is for the welfare of these animals. Had the female animal control officer from this Florida shelter not research them before releasing several dogs that he stated he wants to pull.... they would have been in HIS hands. If you see any red flags pop up... keep checking, your gut instinct can really tell you a lot.

Right now, I am honestly sick to my stomach and cannot believe they are at this again. "Absolutely DO NOT allow any animals to be pulled by Needful Souls" (who are now located in Florida). They were in Georgia for a short while and unfortunately were able to pull some dogs (mostly Pit Bulls) out of a rural shelter, before trying to pull from me. He has been in and out of jail for fraud and is bad news! He prays wherever there is weakness and also has shown an extreme temper. These are the names affiliated: Brett Cochran, Art Cochran, Robin Cochran. Florida does not require Dept. of Ag. Licenses for rescue groups. Please get this out to everyone you know, involved with Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee shelters. He moves around within these areas.

I will get with all of my contacts and research this further. We had to place a restraining order on this man and he was arrested in Bartow County, right before he picked up and moved out of Georgia.

--

Jessica Cogan

Big Fluffy Dog Rescue

516-840-3559

(Note from Brandi: This is from a forward, so I don’t know anything more than what you see here.)

Please forward and post on Facebook. Thanks.

-----Original Message-----From: Lisa Robertt [mailto:lrobertt@dc.twcbc.com]Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2012 5:05 PMTo: Undisclosed-Recipient:;Subject: Rescue Bank National Pet Food Distribution Program - THIS IS A FOOD PET BANK FOR 501C3s - PLEASE CHECK IT OUT IF INTERESTEDImportance: High

(Note from Brandi: The attachment didn’t come through, so you will probably have to email for more information directly.)

Cat Parents...
"Beat the Heat" this February with $20 Spays at the SPCA!
Now is the time to “beat the heat” by spaying your cat in advance of her heat cycle and preventing unwanted litters before “kitten season” arrives this spring, a time when shelters see large numbers of unwanted litters being born.
To help reduce the number of homeless cats, the SPCA of North Brevard is offering a “Beat the Heat” promotion sponsored by PetSmart Charities®. For two Wednesdays, February 8 & 15, 2012, the SPCA of North Brevard’s clinic will spay female cats for a special rate of $20.
Please see the attached file for further information.
Sarah Hanson
Volunteer Coordinator
SPCA of North Brevard, Inc.(321) 412-1151spcavolunteer@spcanorthbrevard.com (spcavolunteer @ spcanorthbrevard.com)
Your satisfaction with communications from SPCA of North Brevard, Inc is important to us. If you would like to review or change your email preferences with us, please visit our email preferences page by clicking this link: http://www.volgistics.com/ex/syst.dll?ACT=30&KEY=14771&PW=3938175&PN=657682

**Special Membership Discount for the month of December! Get $10 off the regular membership cost!** Visit http://www.showohsa.com to join.
Join on-line or mail in your membership fee and get $10 off either a regular adult membership or a youth membership! That makes a regular adult membership just $15 for a year! And youth are only $10! Join OHSA today to take advantage of this fantastic deal.
OHSA provides national awards and recognition to open show competitors. Members can go to ANY open, schooling, or 4-H show - YES, ANY - and earn points toward OHSA. No need for the show to register with OHSA. No additional fees per show. Just show at your local open show, complete the Competition Form, have the show manager verify the information, and send it on to OHSA. EASY!
Disciplines for everyone - in hand; western; hunt seat; saddle seat; speed events; and gaited.
Overall high point will receive a custom trophy saddle. Other awards include custom belt buckles; unique glass block trophies, and so much more!
We are excited to announce our latest sponsors, Just the Thank Leather Goods, Champion's Choice Buckles, Anders Gear, Blissful Blocks and Pink Ribbon Performance Products, which will be providing several of our awards. These companies offer unique products that we believe our members will not only appreciate but be proud to win.
Debbie Hallhttp://www.showohsa.com
show locally . . . achieve nationally

We need to spread this far and wide!!
In 2004, the United States Congress recognized the first official National Day of the Horse.
(Text of the original resolution)
Encouraging citizens to be mindful of the contribution of horses to the economy, history, and character of the United States and expressing the sense of Congress that a National Day of the Horse should be established.
Whereas the horse is a living link to the history of the United States;
Whereas, without horses, the economy, history, and character of the United States would be profoundly different;
Whereas horses continue to permeate the society of the United States, as witnessed on movie screens, on open land, and in our own backyards;
Whereas horses are a vital part of the collective experience of the United States and deserve protection and compassion;
Whereas, because of increasing pressure from modern society, wild and domestic horses rely on humans for adequate food, water, and shelter; and
Whereas the Congressional Horse Caucus estimates that the horse industry contributes well over $100,000,000,000 each year to the economy of the United States: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That Congress--
(1) encourages all citizens to be mindful of the contribution of horses to the economy, history, and character of the United States;
(2) expresses its sense that a National Day of the Horse should be established in recognition of the importance of horses to the Nation's security, economy, recreation, and heritage; and
(3) urges the President to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States and interested organizations to observe National Day of the Horse with appropriate programs and activities
Americans recognize the contribution of horses to American history and modern culture.
Without these noble creatures, America would not be what it is today.
Marge

Sport Horse Incentive Program for Thoroughbreds By Kentucky Equine Research Staff · November 21, 2011

The Jockey Club is ready to launch the Thoroughbred Incentive Program, or T.I.P., to recognize and reward the versatility of Thoroughbred horses. It is hoped that the program will encourage the adoption and retraining of retired racehorses for second careers in pleasure and competition fields.

Show locally . . . achieve nationally.
That's the motto of the newly formed Open Horse Show Association. OHSA's mission is to provide national recognition and quality awards to those that show at local open shows. Since OHSA is a national organization members showing in Florida will be competing with members from New York and Texas and California, and all over the US, yet they won't have to leave their local areas to do so.
This is OHSA's inaugural year. Our overall high point year end award winner will receive a custom trophy saddle with the reserve overall high point winner receiving a trophy buckle. Many other awards will also be given in various disciplines and classes. Our awards will be extensive, unique, and high quality.
All breeds and grade horses are eligible to compete for points with OHSA. There is a place for everyone, from western pleasure, to barrel racing, to hunters, to gaited performance. While there are several breed associations that offer an open show program, limited to that specific breed and the year end recognition doesn't always include an awards program. At OHSA we're very inclusive and welcome ponies, horses, drafts, mules, and donkeys.
Members can earn points at any open, schooling, or 4-H show. The only requirement is that the class(es) they show in aren't pointed with another national organization (like AQHA, NRHA, etc.)
Designed to be affordable for everyone, an annual membership is just $25 and only $20 for a youth membership. Each membership includes one horse participation registration. If members show more than one horse they can add additional horses for just $10 each. That's it. No additional fees when members submit their competition forms. No additional fees to show in multiple disciplines. No additional fees for the year at all.
Sponsors have been very generous to OHSA in our start up year. We are excited to announce our latest sponsors, Just the Thang Leather, Blissful Blocks and Pink Ribbon Performance Products, which will be providing several of our awards. These companies offer unique, quality products that we believe our members will not only appreciate but be proud to win.
One more aspect to OHSA is our carded judges program. Open show judge testing is done on a very limited basis in the US. There are some states that offer open show judges' cards but there isn't a national organization to provide this service. Judges will need to pass a written test based on the rules most open shows use: AQHA and USEF. The test will cover multiple disciplines such as western, hunters, saddle seat, and various gaited breeds. OHSA will maintain our carded judges list on our website.
To join please visit the OHSA website at http://www.showohsa.com or e-mail info@showohsa.com for more information.
Please like us on Facebook also!
And remember – show locally . . . achieve nationally!

Mon Nov 21, 2011 11:18 am (PST)
FOR ALL OF YOU NORTHERN CALIFORNIA READERS:
National Equine Resources Network has a very successful low-cost gelding clinic program working year round throughout California.
NERN is looking for facilities in Northern California (Butte county as well as the Davis area – Galt, Salinas, Grass Valley, Sacramento, Elk Grove, etc) for their March 21-28 2011 clinics which are attended by Davis Equine teaching hospital vets, vet students and techs.
They need a minimum of 10 stalls and a covered arena. If you know of any facility that would donate their grounds.
THIS IS A GREAT PROGRAM....for further info or to donate, to volunteer, to have one in your area contact NERN: http://nationalequine.org/
Marge
"Regardless of which path one chooses to get to Heaven, the best way to arrive there is on a horse."

(Note from Brandi: This is from a forward, so I don’t know anything more than what you see here.)

Are you a Horse advocate with a great story to tell? Our radio show is now expanding to the efforts of Nationwide Horse Rescue. We are scheduling for the Fall Season now. If you know a person that is an Equine Angel, let us know online. www.blogtalkradio.com/bringthemhomenow

On dish net here in PA its channel 404 HRTV, great shows about horses like Horse Patrol, (something like the rspca horse rescue only better), Americas Trail horse (u vote winner), Horse talk, for the love of horses, inside information, horsing around the world, and many many many more. Here is a link to the schedule.

Sat Oct 1, 2011 8:38 am (PDT)
How to Support Your Local Equine Rescue
Do you have extra barn supplies, tack, and other horse necessities? If you find yourself with an excess of blankets, bridles, dewormers, and halters, you could donate them to your local horse rescue. Like many shelters, most horse rescues are non-profit and rely on volunteers and donations. Since your horse appreciates your barn supplies, help another horse and donate to their brighter future.
Equine rescue centers do such a wonderful job all year-round. They take in horses in need and provide them with shelter, feed and medical care. But all animal rescue centers operate totally on donations of cash and needed items.
Winter time can be especially difficult. Hay and feed are often hard to come by, and more expensive just when the horses need them most.
So what can you do to help? Most equine rescue centers have “wishlists” posted on their Web sites, which outline their specific needs. However, below I have listed some general items that will be welcomed by any and all rescue centers.
All you have to do is contact your local rescue and ask them when they want it delivered!
--
Medical Supplies
As you can imagine, rescue centers get through phenomenal amounts of medical supplies. Items that will be welcomed include:
a.. Dewormers.
b.. First aid supplies, such as disinfectant, wound powder, banadages etc.
c.. Fly repellent.

--
Feed and Bedding
It’s wise to check first before pulling up with a truck full of feed or bedding. The rescue you plan to donate to may have a special need for Senior feed, or straw or peat moss, rather than regular shavings.
a.. Bags of sweet feed or pellets. (as mentioned above, check first to see which type would be most welcomed)
b.. Bales of hay. (check first, to make sure that there’s ample storage space, or your donation may get spoiled by standing out in the weather)
c.. Bags of shavings. (Or peat moss, or bales of straw, as appropriate)

--
General Barn Care Items
As you can imagine, caring for large numbers of horses means you need extra supplies of all those things we all use around the barn on a daily basis. Items that will be welcomed include:
a.. Buckets and feeders.
b.. Wheelbarrows.
c.. Shovels, rakes, manure picks.
d.. Brooms.
Some larger facilities would also welcome equipment such as tractors, trailers, manure spreaders etc. If you’ve purchased a new tractor, consider donating your old one.

--
Tack and Equipment
Even if a rescue center only takes in retired horses, they often need tack and equipment for everyday use. If the center works to rehabilitate horses and find them new homes as working animals, they’ll need tack in order to be able to train and bring the horses back to fitness. These items don’t need to be new, but they should be in good repair.
a.. Halters and lead ropes.
b.. Bits and bridles.
c.. Saddles and saddle pads.
d.. Blankets (old, infirm horses often need more help getting through winter than do younger horses.)
e.. Polo wraps, standing bandages.
f.. Grooming kit.
In addition to the items listed above, rescue centers often have need for specific items such as a computer for the office, general office supplies such as envelopes etc., lumber for building stables, field shelters and fencing, trucks and horse trailers. The list is almost endless.
By contacting your local rescue center, you can determine what their specific needs are and make an appropriate donation.
By Jayne D. Wilson

We are a start up therapeutic center, Wish Upon A Horse, here at Lawton Stables. We are located on Hilton Head Island, SC. Due to a medical problem in the family, our instructor needs to leave as soon as possible. We have scheduled with our school system to offer lessons for their 30 Special Olympic kids and we have about ten students already in our program. We are looking for a full time staff member that would be PATH certified and may hold certification for coach of Special Olympic (this certification can be completed in one day). Until we find our full time person, we are willing to offer someone a position for about three to four weeks and provide housing and a salary. If anyone would be interested in the full time or temporary
position please email me at www.info@lawtonstableshhi.com or call my cell at 843-422-1011.
To take a look at us go to www.lawtonstableshhi.com or www.wishuponahorsehhi.org
Thanks,
Brenda Simpson
We hope to see you soon at Lawton Stables !!
Please visit our website!
Lawton Stables
190 Greenwood Drive
Hilton Head, SC 29928
843.671.2586 tel
843.671.2582 fax

Beware of horses being sold posted in Wisner NE. The man selling the horses is a horse trader and will lie about the horses he is selling. The horse I bought from him was very calm and quite the night I looked at him, after taking him home I find out all kinds of bad things the horse cow kicks. and tries to pin you up against the fence or wall, he also wants to bite, one nasty little horse. Pilger NE is where this man lives and also advertises the horses as well broke do not trust him.

What we provide:
Customized riding programs for adult persons with PTSD
($40 per rider-approx. 1 1/2 hours)
Paso Fino Horsemanship lessons ($40 per rider per 1 hour lesson)
Horse Boarding $250.00 per month rough board
Horse Boarding $300.00 per month with stall Owners supply all grain and supplements
Camping Facilities for rider and horse $20.00 per night
Horse breeding services-16hh Cremello Paso Fino. Stud fee $500.00 LFG Looks like an Andalusian!
We also offer Registered Miniature breeding and
"How to" handle horses of the small variety!
Misc. breeding rights on Endeavor Paso Fino Mares for their foals.
Stallion collection/fresh cooled $150.00 per collection
Discounts provided for Veterans/Disabled Veterans and In-Service personnel.
Management has a unique combination of business knowledge and experience in this market. 28+years
Endeavor Paso Fino Equestrian Adventures has combined its expertise to offer services for every type of customer in this sensitive industry. Use of the "Paso Fino" breed and Miniature horses allows disabled, fearful, elderly and inexperienced riders
learn to handle and ride comfortably and safely.
Customizing rides to each individual rider's needs.
Offering horsepersons a safe and comfortable place to "Camp" with their own horses.
Overnight stable for visiting show persons. Show grounds are 3 miles from facility.

Thu Mar 24, 2011 12:52 pm (PDT)
Tennessee Horse Trainer Indicted for HPA Violations
by: Pat Raia
March 22 2011, Article # 17974
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A Federal Grand Jury has indicted three Tennessee residents for alleged violations of the Horse Protection Act (HPA).
The HPA prohibits "soring," the deliberate injury of a horse's feet and legs to achieve a high-stepping "big lick" gait. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service enforces the Act, certifies Horse Industry Organizations (HIOs) that sponsor horse shows, and trains Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs). HIOs hire DQPs to inspect horses presented for exhibition at the horse shows they sponsor.
The indictment handed down earlier this month alleges that between 2002 and 2010, Spotted Saddle Horse trainer Barney Davis and two other individuals, Christen Altman and Jeffery Bradford, conspired to violate the HPA by soring horses and falsifying forms and other paperwork required to exhibit animals.
According to the indictment, Davis allegedly placed bolts in horses' feet, taped blocks to horses' feet, and applied other soring techniques to horses prior to competition. The indictment also alleges that Davis would remove external devices prior to pre-performance HPA compliance inspections and inject horses with pain reducing drugs to limit the level of the animals' reactions to inspection procedures.
The indictment further alleges that Davis and Altman used others as nominee trainers to obtain trainers' licenses and that the three falsified horse show entry forms and other documents claiming that Bradford and others were trainers of horses actually trained by Davis.
Davis is also accused of transporting a sored horse and entering a sored horse in competition.
Neither Davis, Altman, nor Bradford were available for comment.
Sharry Dedman-Beard, public information officer for the United States Attorney's Office, Eastern Tennessee District, said no court date has been set.

Wed Mar 16, 2011 3:42 pm (PDT)
Comparing Bute and Firocoxib Safety (AAEP 2010)
by: Stacey Oke, DVM, MSc
March 10 2011, Article # 17907
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The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) firocoxib had fewer side effects than phenylbutazone in horses after 42 days of treatment, according to scientists from Merial Limited who presented comparative research results at the 2010 Convention of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), held Dec. 4-8 in Baltimore, Md.
Phenylbutazone, or "Bute" as it is commonly called, is useful for controlling pain and/or inflammation in many equine veterinary cases, but its use is not without risk. Side effects such as gastric ulcer formation and kidney damage can occur.
Like phenylbutazone, firocoxib is also a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is approved to control pain and inflammation associated with equine osteoarthritis at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg once daily for up to 14 days.
Bute, considered a "pioneer" NSAID, inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory molecules (called prostaglandins, produced from fatty acids) by blocking the action of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX, which makes the prostaglandins from the fatty acids). Unfortunately, Bute blocks some "good" prostaglandins, such as those that protect the lining of the stomach. Newer NSAIDs such as firocoxib are more selective and mostly block the production of "bad" prostaglandins; therefore, these are thought to have fewer untoward side effects.
The research team treated 42 horses with various dose levels of firocoxib and phenylbutazone once daily by mouth (orally) for 42 days. They found:
There was an 88% increase in gastric ulceration in the horses treated with therapeutic levels of phenylbutazone (4.4 mg/kg), compared to only an 11% increase in horses in the control group and those treated with elevated levels of firocoxib (0.5 mg/kg);
Microscopic damage to the gastrointestinal tract occurred following phenylbutazone, but investigators did not note any damage even after administering five times the therapeutic level of firocoxib; and
The researchers noted microscopic damage to the kidneys following administration of therapeutic doses of phenylbutazone, but they noted similar damage only in the higher-dose firocoxib-treated horses.
The research team concluded that after 42 days of treatment at therapeutic levels, firocoxib was well-tolerated, whereas phenylbutazone was associated with gastrointestinal ulceration and tubulointerstitial nephropathy (a type of kidney damage that can lead to kidney failure).
Prostaglandins and COX
COX is the abbreviation for cyclooxygenase--a key enzyme in the production of prostaglandins and thromboxanes from a particular fatty acid called arachadonic acid. Some prostaglandins (such as prostaglandin E) are "bad" prostaglandins because they are potent pro-inflammatory molecules; however, many "good" prostaglandins are also produced. These good prostaglandins play important roles in regular, healthy metabolic pathways such as:
a.. Blood clotting;
b.. Kidney function;
c.. Gastrointestinal health;
d.. Wound healing;
e.. Bone metabolism;
f.. Growth of nerves; and
g.. Immune function, among others.
Classic NSAIDs, like phenylbutazone, inhibit the production of both the "good" and the "bad" prostaglandins (and related compounds), whereas newer NSAIDs primarily inhibit only the "bad" prostaglandins. This is because there is more than one type of COX. The two main forms of the enzyme existed are COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 produces many of the "good" prostaglandins whereas COX-2 is primarily responsible for the production of the pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. COX-2 does contribute to some beneficial activities such as wound healing and maintaining blood flow to the kidney. As a result, traditional NSAIDs that block both COX-1 and COX-2 have slowly been replaced with NSAIDs that preferentially block COX-2, thus preserving the function of COX-1. These newer-generation COX-2 NSAIDs selectively block COX-2 rather than COX-1, resulting in potent anti-inflammatory properties with fewer side effects.

Mon Mar 14, 2011 12:40 pm (PDT)
Hi All,
I would like to let you know of a variety of affordable online courses on equine nutrition and health issues. These courses are very flexible, operating from private Yahoo groups where course materials are posted to the files once a week and you may read at your convenience, ask questions at any time.
For full descriptions/course outlines and other details, please visit:www.drkellon.com
Eleanor M. Kellon, VMD

The survey that we participated in last year has been completed. If you would like to view the results of this nationwide survey on rescue organizations and unwanted horses you can click on the following link: http://jas.fass.org/cgi/content/full/88/12/4142
It makes for very interesting reading.
Mike Dodge
President and Co-Founder
H.O.R.S.E. Rescue & Sanctuaryhttp://www.hrsny.org

A state panel approved a rule Thursday that would help racehorses after their days on the track have come to an end. The rule calls for some money from the Oklahoma Breeding Development Fund Special Account to be used to help pay for the retraining and care of Oklahoma-bred thoroughbred racehorses.

As the result of a generous gift from a donor, Rainbow
Meadows is please to announce that effective August 20, 2010, we will become
a distributor of Thrive Feed. 40,000 pounds (1000 bags) will be delivered to
the rescue this week.
Thrive is a superior nutritional product which is appropriate for all types
of horses, from foals to the elderly. It has been particularly beneficial in
the refeeding of malnourished and emaciated horses here at the rescue with
amazing results. It has also been used for the maintenance of previously
compromised horses with no negative consequences.
If you have any interest in purchasing the product, it will be available at
the suggested retail price of $18.95 (plus tax) per 40 pound bag. We hope to
be able to support interested rescues in this region which are faced with
malnutrition issues on a regular basis. In addition, we want to supply all
other customers who want a healthier horse in their personal pasture.
Please feel free to share this with anyone who might be interested.
You can read more about Thrive at
www.thrivefeed.com
Contact me for orders or pick up information.Karen Everhart
316-648-5082
rainbowmeadowsranch@gmail.com (rainbowmeadowsranch @ gmail.com)

I wanted to make all the rescue groups and also private
rescuers aware of a new program the International Performance Horse
Development Assoc(IPHDA) has developed..specificaly for "unwanted", or
abused horses rescued.

An adverse event can be broadly defined as an undesirable occurrence after
the use of a vaccine, drug, animal device, insecticide, medicated feed, etc.
Multiple federal agencies are involved in taking reports of adverse events
in animals, which can make it difficult for owners and veterinarians to
easily notify the appropriate agencies.

Adverse reactions can range from a minor swelling at an injection site to
salivation and diarrhea following an insecticide administration to acute
collapse and death. The treatment of the animal should always come first.
However, reporting adverse events for products used on horses is an
important follow-up to the incident.

From: Cyndi
Greathouse
Sent: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 8:28 AM
To:
rescue@rochester.rr.com
Subject: Horse Aid Live
I would like to introduce Horse Aid Live! We are a non-profit charitable
fundraising organization which provides horse enthusiasts, horse industries,
and supporters of equines of ALL BREEDS a way to give to one entity which
then distributes annual grants to non-profit organizations that support and
provide humane treatment, shelter, and care to equines of any and all breeds
– the United Way for horses. While working toward our own IRS 501 c(3)
designation, the Horse Aid Live Fund has been established at Blue Grass
Community Foundation to accept tax-deductible charitable donations on our
behalf.
As you know, the number of unwanted horses is staggering and continues to
escalate. Prior to the downturn in the economy, the economic impact to
shelter all the unwanted horses in the U.S. was over $25 million annually.
Now, the problem has become two-fold. Not only can many people no longer
afford to purchase the horse itself, the cost for veterinary care, feed,
hay, bedding, and general care has also increased – thereby forcing some
horses already owned into situations of neglect and abandonment. The
increasing number of unwanted horses in itself is cause for concern, and the
problem is compounded further because many equine humane centers, shelters,
retraining facilities and rescues have closed due to a lack of funding.
Horse Aid Live wants to do something about this NOW! The Inaugural Horse Aid
Live Concert Event is scheduled for Spring 2011 in Kentucky. The venue is
reserved, and we are in talks with artists. Several producers based in Los
Angeles are helping us with the talent, negotiations for CD/DVD and network
broadcast rights, as well as with the production end.
I have attached a pdf file with more detailed general and sponsor
information.
--
While we are accepting donations and seeking concert sponsorships, Horse Aid
Live is also seeking public support for our mission to show a cohesive
industry-wide objective. The statement on our website reads: "These
associations support the mission of Horse Aid Live". Under this heading are
logos, and I would like to include regional and national logos with those
already listed including the USEF, USDF, ASPCA, Equine Health and Welfare
Alliance, American Horse Council, Unwanted Horse Coalition and TOBA. There
is no cost to you and you are under no future obligation to sponsor Horse
Aid Live - our purpose is to show industry-wide support for our mission and
create wider awareness for the unwanted horse issue.
Help spread the word:
www.HorseAidLive.org and join us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Horse-Aid-Live/167509555898)
and/or twitter (http://twitter.com/HorseAidLive).
Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to speak to me
about financial support for the charity.
Phone is 859-621-0051 and email:
cgreathouse@HorseAidLive.org.
Thanks so much!
Cyndi
Cyndi Greathouse
Executive Director
Horse Aid Live, Inc.
P.O. Box 910785
Lexington, KY 40591
859-621-0051
www.HorseAidLive.org
cgreathouse@HorseAidLive.org

Fri Feb 26, 2010 3:40 am (PST) http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/dvm/Veterinary+Equine/Complete-horse-genome-sequence-unveiled/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/640079
Complete horse genome sequence unveiled
Nov 6, 2009
DVM NEWSMAGAZINE
Davis, Calif. -- The complete sequence of the domestic horse has been uncovered by researchers at the University of California-Davis (UC-Davis), the Broad Institute at MIT and Harvard University and were set to be released in the Nov. 6 issue of the journal Science.
The findings have important implications for equine breeding, a $39 billion industry in the United States, according to UC-Davis officials.
"This very high-quality genome sequence of the horse is important because it gives us access to specific sequence information that we can now apply to identify the genes for specific traits in the horse," says Cecilia Penedo, a UC-Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory geneticist and co-author of the study.
As a collaborator on the international study, titled Horse Genome Project, Penedo supplied DNA from Arabian and Quarter horses. The study findings note more than 90 hereditary conditions that affect both humans and horses.
“Because horses share these conditions, which include infertility, inflammatory diseases and muscle disorders, the horse is an important model for improving the understanding of human diseases,” UC-Davis reports. “The sequencing project revealed that the horse genome is somewhat larger than the dog genome and smaller than the human and cow genomes. In comparing the horse and human chromosomes, the researchers discovered that 17 out of 32 horse chromosome pairs -- 53 percent -- are composed of material from a single human chromosome, while only 29 percent of dog chromosomes are composed of material from a single human chromosome. This indicates that fewer chromosome rearrangements separate humans from horses than separate humans from dogs.”
The study also unveiled an “evolutionarily” new centromere, a key structural feature of chromosomes, on horse chromosome 11 that could reveal models to study factors cell activity. The full sequencing will
help researchers map various traits of the horse, says Penedo.
The genome project was funded by the National Human Genome Research Institute, the Dorothy Russell Havemeyer Foundation, the Volkswagen Foundation, the Morris Animal Foundation, and Italy's Programmi di Ricerca Scientifica di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale.
Related Links
First full livestock animal genome sequenced

Fri Jun 26, 2009 10:43 am (PDT)
These are not my web sites. ;-)http://www.rendaivu.com
This one is a FREE horse tracking web site. After you join, you enter your horse(s), you can include pedigree, photos, purchase date, purchase price, tattoo, microchip, vet, farrier, etc. Then, you can start entering records for training, health care, farrier visits, reproduction, and performance records (shows). You can select next due dates for regular expenses (like vet or farrier) and email reminders will be sent, run different expense reports on each horse or all of them, and run income reports.
You can also start your own "organization" for your boarding stable, breeding operation, rescue, pony club, etc. Other members can join, their horses can "join", you can send out newsletters, report dues/fees, schedule lessons or meetings, have a discussion forum, organize and send out invoices, forms/documents, list staff, list prices, etc. You approve each new member and only members can view all of the details of your organization. You can run the same income or expense reports for your organization.
Plus, the site has open classifieds, a business directory, and a message forum. And it's all FREE! (well, they do have paid classifieds, but the regular listings are free) This is a very powerful online resource that all computer-savvy horse people should use. I use it to keep track of deworming and farrier visits. Here's my page:http://www.rendaivu.com/friend_profile.php?id=1143
(you do not need to make a profile)http://www.horsies.org
This one is a new little forum that's just recently started up. So far, there's a nice group of diverse people here. You can post your horses/tack for sale for free on this forum as well. Stop in and say hello!http://bitsandbarter.proboards.com
This is a forum for buying, selling, and trading horses, tack, and even non-horse related items. It's a great place to look for a bargain or post your items for sale. There are wanted sections too, so you can see if you have what someone else is looking for.
Most people like to use Paypal on this site, which helps protect both buyer and seller. Paypal is free for "personal use" for both buyer and seller. If you sell a lot, or expensive items, you may have to upgrade to a business account, in which case there is a fee for transactions. You can avoid the fee though by requiring buyers to pay with an "e-check". Learn all about Paypal on their web site, http://www.paypal.com I have been using Paypal for nearly 10 years now and have been very happy with their service.
Two good articles on riding young horses and the bone development of young horses. This is a MUST READ for all horse owners, but especially those who want to riding and train young horses. Both are written by well respected veterinarians.http://www.equinestudies.org/ranger_2008/ranger_piece_2008_pdf1.pdfhttp://www.robertmmiller.com/andthcaushol.html
Good horse weight calculator:http://www.betterbalancefeeds.com/HorseWeight.htm
Great Saddle Fitting guide:http://www.saddlingsolutions.com/Fitting.html
Again, none of these are my sites. They're just a few I thought I'd pass on. Feel free to pass them along yourself!
Barbara

Animal CSI? University to teach vet forensics

K, I want to move to FL -- this would be a great career change. I'm sure someone on this board might be interested.

University of Florida to offer nation’s first program at a major school

Mon Mar 2, 2009 3:43 pm (PST)
Not-for-Profit Offers Opportunities to Junior Riders
All too often, talented junior riders are unable to fulfill their dream of competing in the big eq. division at horse shows because they lack the funds to purchase an appropriate horse. Capable big equitation horses that can compete successfully in the division and qualify and compete at regionals and finals are extremely expensive to purchase or even lease.
So for many junior riders, their progression through the equitation divisions ends when they reach the 3'6" level. For some, this insurmountable obstacle is enough to cause them to quit riding altogether.
In order to offer opportunities to talented riders who can not afford these types of horses, Big Eq Dream, a 501-3C not-for-profit was formed. The plan for Big Eq Dream is to have owners of suitable horses donate them to the organization in order to receive a tax deduction. The organization would then make these horses available to selected riders for a reasonable lease fee. The riders would be selected by the board of directors based on their talent, dedication and need.
The idea for Big Eq Dream came from my own frustration of knowing talented riders who dreamed of doing the Medal and Maclay, but who never got the chance simply because they could not afford the horse, said Carol Parker, a trainer based in Long Island, NY, who founded the organization. As a junior rider training with Robert Hoskins, Parker s own junior career was limited by the lack of a suitable equitation horse.
I know what it feels like not to fulfill that dream, and I hate to see it happen to kids who really deserve the chance, she said.
Big Eq Dream has received its 501-3C status and certification from the State of New York. Parker heads the organization along with fellow board members Andrea Misuraca and Judy Galterio. Misuraca is a successful trainer/rider, and Galterio is a longtime respected barn manager. Both are based on Long Island.
The organization hopes to eventually receive not only donations of horses, but also monetary donations which would fund the care of the horses, as well as enable them to provide sponsorships for riders to subsidize the costs of showing.
If you have an appropriate horse that you are interested in donating, contact Carol Parker at caparker@optonline.net or (631) 834-9943.
Source: www.usef.org

The NetPosse Identification Program (NIP) is NetPosse's database for anyone wanting a registry for a horse or tack - the horse doesn't have to be registered or even microchipped. You can include scars, markings, tattoos, brands, etc.
When someone finds a horse we can search that database to see if there is a match and notify the owner immediately. Also, those currently registered in the database will have their horse/tack posted to the website much more quickly than current listings because we already have their information and pictures readily available.
As I mentioned before, there is no way to mandate scanning at auctions or slaughter houses. However, when a horse is missing or stolen, slaughter houses can be notified, and that is why we need the public to post flyers at auctions. If found at the slaughter house or auction, then the chip will provide positive proof of ownership. Without the chip, those places can easily say it was just another sorrel quarter horse. If someone spots a possibly stolen/missing horse at one of these places, they could request the horse be scanned. Authorities could possible detain the horse until that time, but without any notice of a positive ID, there is no way they can hold that horse and it will disappear again.
That's just a basic summary ... I hope the link answers any other questions. If not, please feel free to ask!
Sincerely,
Angela
7. Microchipping
Posted by: "gatornsass06" gatornsass06@gmail.com gatornsass06
Date: Sun Mar 1, 2009 6:50 pm ((PST))
I have been reading the threads about Microchipping because it's
something I've been thinking about doing for my horses. I went to the
Net-Posse site to look more closely, and I have a question. What is
the NetPosse Identification Program registration? It doesn't give any
details, not that I can find anyways. In what ways would having a
microchipped horse help if he/she is stolen? Would it help prevent
slaugher or sale at auctions? Thanks for your help!
Chris

Thu Dec 4, 2008 3:02 pm (PST)
December 2008
Please Donate
Do you know a horse that needs a Second Chance?
American Humane’s Second Chance® Fund helps organizations that are both American Humane members and animal welfare-related 501(c)(3) organizations offset the cost of caring for animals -- including horses -- that are victims of abuse or neglect. Find out how we’re giving these victims a second chance.
Horse abuse is on the rise.
Horses across the country are suffering neglect, starvation and torture.
Sometimes horse abuse is apparent -- sometimes it’s not. You can help us teach people how to spot the signs of abuse and neglect and create greener pastures for these poor animals.
Will you please help? The nation’s horses need our attention.
Seeing a horse in an open field can conjure up feelings of beauty, freedom and new frontiers.
But what do you see when you look closer? Is the horse really OK?
Or is his skin pulling tight against his ribs? Is his body emaciated or injured? Is he wandering on his own farm, or has he been abandoned there?
Horses need us now, more than ever, to take that closer look.
Experts indicate that horse neglect and abuse is on the rise nationwide. Too many horses are being starved, or just plain deserted in other people’s fields, as their owners struggle with meeting the rising cost of hay and care in this tough economy.
Other horses are being tortured, beaten or kept in unsafe, unhealthy environments -- even tethered to trees with no way to escape deadly cold or heat.
But we can do something.
With your help, we can preserve horses as the national icon they’ve always been.
American Humane works day in, day out, improving education, systems and programs to prevent abuse and neglect. It’s what we do.
For horses, we created and lead the National Horse Abuse Investigation School, one of the first trainings of its kind in the country.
In our National Horse Abuse Investigation School, people learn how to spot the signs of horse abuse -- and how to ensure convicted abusers are held accountable.
This training is high-quality. It’s comprehensive -- we cover it all, from basic horse anatomy, to horse care, to the proper chain of command in reporting horse abuse. It’s regional -- so we reach as many people as possible. And it’s hands-on. We teach using real horses, so the education is up-close and practical.
But all this means costs quickly add up. And the only way we can keep the tuition affordable and available to so many students is with the support of caring people like you.
Please help us help horses.
By supporting American Humane’s National Horse Abuse Investigation School, you can help us address horse abuse on the front lines -- by training more professionals and volunteers to immediately recognize the signs of abuse and take the right steps to stop the problem.
Forward this message to a friend!
Join American Humane’s CareGivers Circle®
If you’re looking for a little inner peace this holiday season, consider joining our CareGivers Circle. Members enjoy both the satisfaction and convenience of making automatic monthly or quarterly donations in the amount of their choice.
Our mission is to prevent cruelty, abuse, neglect and exploitation of children and animals and to assure that their interests and well-being are fully, effectively and humanely guaranteed by an aware and caring society.
American Humane is committed to the responsible stewardship of donated funds and to meeting the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness and cost effectiveness.
American Humane meets the strong, comprehensive standards of the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance , has been awarded the Independent Charities of America "Best In America" Seal of Approval and has met the stringent standards for financial efficiency and accountability required by the American Institute of Philanthropy to qualify as a Top-Rated Charity.

Tue Nov 11, 2008 3:16 pm (PST)
Safergrass.org Announces CertiCarb ; a Carbohydrate Testing Program for Horse Feed and Hay
What does low carb mean? Lower than what? There are several analytical procedures that measure sugar, and each one measures a slightly different fraction, says Kathryn Watts, owner of Rocky Mountain Research & Consulting, Inc. and Safergrass.org. Samples analyzed by different testing labs may not provide a fair comparison for consumers looking for lower carbohydrate horse feeds. There is also a lot of confusion about definitions, which makes it difficult to shop smarter for feeds lower in nonstructural carbohydrates; which include sugar, starch and fructan. Very few feed companies routinely test for sugar and starch. Even when they do, questions arise: Has the manufacturer provided us with an average per batch number, with a large variation between bags? How much variation is there from one batch to another? Do they always use the same testing lab and testing procedure? Those of us caring for horses and ponies with
carbohydrate intolerance ask these questions every day, and they deserve to be answered says Kathryn.
To eliminate all the guessing, Safergrass.org will provide a service to consumers, horse feed companies and hay producers to provide independent testing of horse feeds for carbohydrates at the same, approved professional laboratory. Results will be posted on www.safergrass.org so consumers may make more informed feed choices. Horse feed companies who have done a better job of keeping non structural carbohydrates reliably lower deserve to have this information readily available for comparison by the consumer.
Searching for low sugar hay can be an expensive and frustrating experience. It is rare that growers or brokers marketing horse hay test for sugar and starch. A horse owner may waste a lot of time and money testing hay that ends up being inappropriate. Horse owners at my seminars say they would spend $5-10/ton more for hay that was already tested. Hay growers need to take advantage of this value-added concept. There is a growing market for low sugar hay, and these consumers already look to Safergrass.org for advice on management of carbohydrate intolerant horses. Horse owners are becoming educated that color isn t important, when tests results look good, and hay is free of mold. Hay growers can now sell that off color hay for a premium price if the hay test numbers come out right. Your new customers will find you when you list your low sugar hay on Safergrass.org in the CertiCarb program.

These are very good tips for helping id your critter's in case they were stolen,lets Pray we never ave that happen.Marlene

--

reminder

I just wanted to remind everyone that anything gotten for free can be sold for a profit. That means even with horse prices so low if they are stolen then the thief can and will make a profit off of selling them. I had 2 horses stolen from me in a training contract gone bad, I was able to get 1 back with the help of a lot of Internet horse people including Stolen Horse International. The other horse was never returned as he was neglected and died before I could do anything about it.

Simple ways to protect yourself: Don't leave halters on your horses in the field (not only can they get hurt if caught on something it makes it easier for a thief to grab them)

Take lots of photo's at all times of the year and especially if something changes about the horses appearance (such as a new scar or getting lighter from greying out)

Papers don't mean the horse is any better then a grade horse but if you have papers it is a form of proof that you own the horse and some have photo's on them as well. If no papers are available at least make sure you have a bill of sale.

Forms of ID tattoes, microchips and brands. All have advantages and disadvantages. A custom brand can be bought through Stolen Horse International normally cheaper then if you go direct and they get a donation as well. Check with your local state laws on brands.

Try to check your herd as often as possible and make notes if they don't all come up and when. The sooner the word can be spread the easier and better chance to recover the horse.

Sat Sep 20, 2008 5:54 am (PDT)
For those of you in rescue or who actively help report people who abuse animals a new website: www.veterinaryforensics.comcatdvm@bellsouth.net (catdvm @ bellsouth.net) (e mail can be found on the website contact link)
This is an excellent venue to report suspicious activity.
These people will analyse and prosecute whenever, however, whoever possible

Thu
Aug 14, 2008 7:53 pm (PDT) www.reportanimalcruelty.com
<http://www.reportanimalcruelty.com>
This website accepts non-emergency animal cruelty and neglect complaints
for the entire state of Vermont. Once a complaint is submitted, the
lead agency for the appropriate county is notified and will make sure
the complaint gets into the right hands for investigation. That lead
agency will also follow up and make sure the investigation has taken
place.
I'll send the official press release as soon as it's ready.
If anyone would like to learn more about Vermont's Cruelty Response
System project, please visit www.vermonthumane.org/cruelty.php
<http://www.vermonthumane.org/cruelty.php>

Hi everyone,
I know that there are a lot of horses that we run across which have a limited time to find
a home before being sent to auction or to slaughter.&nbsp; I thought it would help if
we had a master list of breed specific rescues or online groups which could network to
help a specific breed if we run across one in need.&nbsp; I am sure there is a list
out there already, but I don't have one.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This list should include breeds covered, e-mail addy for group/individual, and
contact/phone # if applicable.&nbsp; This way, in case one of our breed specific group
members is away, we can still get in touch with the rescue group members if need
be.&nbsp; So, if anyone (I&nbsp;know we have curly, mule/donkey,&nbsp;and
morgan members on here)&nbsp;networks for a specific breed, age group, bred mares, etc
let us know, so we can put your contact on a master list so we can quickly contact you or
your group in case of time constraints on a possible rescue.&nbsp; Groups/individuals
who network without members on here can also be listed so we can&nbsp;better network.
&nbsp;I have one for Peruvian Paso's thus far (Susan from the Peruvian&nbsp;group
came up with the idea of creating a master list). Multiple groups for the same breed are
welcome.&nbsp; The more contacts we have the more lives we may be able to
save.&nbsp; Please feel free to add to the list (it
may save a life!)
&nbsp;
Peruvian Paso's - Peruvian Paso rescue group - PPasoRescue@yahoogroups.com&nbsp;
Must first join at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PPasoRescue/join
&nbsp;

Thu
Apr 17, 2008 5:22 am (PDT)
1. Set aside a few moments to label equipment, so it doesn't walk away.
2. Take snapshots of your saddle, tack room, trailer, and any other equipment that you
might need to identify later on, should it get stolen.
3. Set up a file or at least a plastic sleeve for each of your horses Coggins papers,
photos, shot record, and other important papers.
4. Take pictures of your horse from the front, back, and each side, including any scars or
identifying marks, and put them in his file.
5. Make photo copies of your horse's file, your truck registration, and copies of the
other snapshots, and put them in a safe place.